Young Men's Christian Association of Metropolitan Hartford

Youth development - the y nurtures the potential of every child and teen through programs that provide them with the tools and resources they need to succeed in life. Beginning with early childhood development programs that provide the nurturing environment for children as Young as age 6 weeks, through pre-school programming that foster growth and development of physical and social skills, to school-age programs that provide enrichment activities that enhance and supports a child's school curriculum, the y's child development programs help children at every age to grow to maximize their god-given potential. This development continues through the pre-teen and teen years with programming that helps each child build new skills, develop self-confidence and mature into a Young adult. Programs include child care, camping, and teen leadership & mentoring as well as many other programs.

Social responsibility - we know that when we work together, we move individuals, families and communities forward. The y responds to society's most pressing needs by developing innovative, community-based solutions to help those in need to reach their full potential. We are also committed to inspiring a spirit of service by uniting individuals from all walks of life to participate in and work for positive social change. From programs designed to address community needs in under-served areas to volunteerism and advocacy the y incorporates social responsibility throughout its activities so that individually and together every y member can help to build a stronger community for everyone. Programs and activities include mentoring, advocacy efforts, international programs, and philanthropy to provide resources financial assistance to those who cannot afford the full cost of programs as well as many other programs.

Healthy living - the y aims to improve the nation's health and well-being by providing programs and activities that promote wellness, reduce risk for disease and help others reclaim their health. These programs and everything else the y does are in service of making us - our y's and our communities - better. The result is a country that values health and communities that support healthy choices. Programs that support integrated health in all communities, family time, health and well-being for people of all ages, promoting active life-styles through fitness and recreational sports, and programming tailored to individuals with specific health risk factors & conditions are all components of the y's efforts to improve the health of our communities. Programs include aquatics and youth sports, livestrong, group and individual health and wellness, and adaptive sports as well as many other programs.